Hello Everyone. I'm new to this, seems great. Any help would be appreciated.

[grv0013]

Just wanted to say hello.  I'm already communicating with someone in Russia, and I'm just trying to acquire as much info as possible.  Thanks.

[Kuna]

HI grv, and welcome to RWD. 

You're going to find a mountain of info in here and if you're just starting out be sure to read the TR archives as much as you can because there's gold in there.  The trip reports will give you the run down on both successful and unsuccessful trips - and what to expect "on the ground".

You MUST read the 10 commandments (available in the top left menu).  If you stick to those you'll have your risks greatly reduced.

Be careful with agencies and service providers in FSU.  Many will rip you off in the blink of an eye BUT you can manage your risks of you're smart about it.

As questions come up ask them here...  You'll find many very experienced men who are willing to give advice...  One or two inexperienced men will give advice too but you need to identify and ignore them if you want to keep the risks low.

I started out about 3 years ago and like you I joined RWD early on.  If you ask the right questions, listen to the answer and act with purpose (including traveling as soon as you can) you will be a mile ahead.

Good luck, and welcome again. 

Kuna

[I/O]

Hone the BS detector. Ignore the "tits ‘n’ arse" profiles on websites, they ain't real. Get the current prospect on the phone and organise a meeting asap.  If she can't or won’t talk (ad nauseam) on the phone, hesitates about meeting, tries you on for a ticket to meet on your patch, money, sob stories or other BS, pull the plug and move on.

I/O

[Gator]

Welcome grv13!

When do you anticipate that you will travel to Russia?

It sounds as if you are focusing on just one woman.  We call this WOVO (write one, visit one).  The option to this is WMVM ("M" for many). 

Each option has its advantages and disadvantages.  These are discussed (debated) frequently at RWD (almost as much as age disparity).  Read the archives.  You will find success stories for both options.  Hope it is not debated in your thread.

One question.  How did you make contact with your RW?

[kryten41]

Welcome grv0013,

If you haven't already started, now is the time to start learning some Russian.  Even if your lady speaks fluent English, you will find it very helpful in getting around to speak some of the language.  Some have used Pimsleur language Cd's, some the Lonely Planet phrasebook (I found both helpful).  There are also Russian lessons on youtube.com of varying quality, most of these went too fast for me.  I liked Pimsleur because it is a series of 1/2 hour lessons, and you can take them with you when you drive. 

You should also learn to read some Russian, here is a good link to get you started http://www.alphadictionary.com/rusgrammar/alphabet.html

Good luck!

[Enot]

What city in Russia is she from?

How did you meet?  Did she contact you?

Take your time and don't hurry over, 3-6 months is a good timeframe to get to know each other.

If she asks for money or tells you a story that might require money to "fix" a problem, be leary.  If you send money concider it gone and expect nothing in return.

Lastly, use an agency that doesn't charge by the letter, just a one time fee.  Forget an interpreter if you go.  Just buy an English/Russian Russian English dictionary or a phrase book.  Learn to pronouce the alphabet and before you know it you will be reading Russian.

Best of luck.

[2tallbill]

Pretty good advice up-thread.

When you ask questions you will get advice. It's your job
to sift through it and do what works for you.

Udachi !

Bill

[JR]

Welcome! Good advice already given. Try to keep your eyes open and don't fall in love with a photo. Get her on the phone, Skype, ICQ, what have you with cam and mic.

Most importantly: don't let it drag on and on. Keep moving forward with a realistic plan.

[GoodOlBoy]

Welcome to RWD GRV0013.

You have found the right place for accurate info about FSU ladies.

If you are truly serious about happiness, a Russian woman will give you all you can handle and more!

If you have any questions.....just ask!

Welcome again to the forum and good luck.


GOB